One of the comments that is given among Mexicans is that ultra-processed foods They harm health, they are not good, they should not be consumed by children, among other things.
But most women and men know what ultra-processed foods are and how they affect their body.
These two questions may not be able to be answered by this sector of the population, due to their diverse activities and when eating, they do not see the labeling, the nutritional table or simply eat what they see at first glance whether healthy or not.
Given this, we will answer the first two questions we asked at the beginning, and we will also tell you what ultra-processed foods are.
What are ultra-processed foods?
Ultra-processed foods are food products that have been subjected to an intensive industrial process that involves the manipulation of food ingredients using numerous techniques and additions of substances, with the aim of creating products ready for consumption.
These products usually contain synthetic ingredients and food additives to improve flavor, texture, durability and appearance.
Such foods are nutritionally unbalanced. They are high in sugar, total fat, saturated fat and sodium, and low in protein, fiber, minerals and vitamins, compared to unprocessed or minimally processed products and foods.
Ultra-processed foods and their relationship with diabetes
According to the place Let’s talk about health government of MexicoUltra-processed foods and drinks are considered particularly obesogenic and generally unhealthy products; their frequent consumption leads to an increase in calories, which is related to the development of type 2 diabetes, the most common form of the disease.
We know that obesity is the main risk factor for the development of diabetes and other chronic diseases and that obesity is largely conditioned by having a poor diet, rich in the consumption of fats, sugars and sodium.
Therefore, it is important to make healthy decisions; simple lifestyle measures have been shown to be effective in preventing diseases such as type 2 diabetes.
Some ultra-processed products
Some of the ultra-processed foods are: soft drinks, juices, flavored milks, cookies, cakes, dressings, chips, salty or sweet snacks, ice cream, chocolates and candies, sweetened cereals, “energy” bars, jams, margarines, among others.
Recommendations to maintain a healthy diet
The recommendations made by this site to achieve and maintain a healthy body weight, choose healthy foods and avoid diseases are the following:
- Choose fresh foods, available where you live, they will always be more delicious, nutritious and economical.
- Replace ultra-processed foods with traditional foods, which improve the quality of your diet
- Watch what you eat and the number of meals you eat per day
- Read the front labeling of the products. The more seals it has, the greater the risk to your health.
- Increase the consumption of whole grains as they provide fiber
- Prefer plain water as a drink to hydrate yourself and accompany your meals.
- Don’t forget to stay active! Combine good nutrition with exercise
